40-year wait ends for modern airport fire service
BY NED GAGAHE
After nearly four decades, a new Airport Rescue and Firefighting Service Complex has officially opened at Honiara International Airport yesterday, marking a major milestone in strengthening aviation safety in Solomon Islands.
This new development in the aviation sector was made possible under the Second Solomon Islands Roads and Aviation Project (SIRAP2) with funding support from the World Bank and was implemented by the Ministry of Communication and Aviation.
The new facility replaces an ageing fire station first established in the late 1980s, ending years of reliance on outdated infrastructure.
Minister for Communication and Aviation, Alfred Tuasulia, said the development represents a long-overdue investment in a critical area of the country’s aviation system.
He highlighted that the journey of airport rescue and firefighting services in Solomon Islands began in 1986, when the initial contract for the first fire service building was signed, with construction completed in 1987.
“Despite the completion of the building, personnel were still supported by the civil fire units from the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force,” he said.
The original facility was later relocated in 1993 and continued to serve operations for decades, but will now be decommissioned following the opening of the new complex.
“It was not until 2023, after nearly four decades, that the Henderson Airport Rescue Firefighting Facility returned to focus,” Minister Tuasulia said.
Adding to the historical context, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communication and Aviation, Alwyn Danitofea, said the redevelopment reflects years of planning and renewed government commitment to aviation safety.
He said the rescue fire service has evolved significantly from its early beginnings, when resources and infrastructure were limited, to now having a modern facility designed to meet current operational demands.
Danitofea said the project was prioritised under the aviation development programme, recognising the importance of aerodrome emergency response as a core safety requirement at the country’s main gateway.
He also acknowledged the contributions of former Permanent Secretary Moses Virivolomo and past project teams for their role in ensuring the project was brought to fruition.
“Ladies and gentlemen, the new facility we are here to witness its handing over will significantly strengthen Solomon Islands Airport Corporation Limited’s capacity and capability to maintain safety of passengers, visitors, and vital infrastructures,” Danitofea said.
The modern complex is expected to improve emergency response times, enhance training capacity, and provide better working conditions for firefighters.
PS Danitofea said the facility will play a critical role in ensuring compliance with international aviation safety standards while supporting the continued growth of air transport in Solomon Islands.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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